During 1948 the Berlin Blockade and Airlift showed the peak conflict level between the Soviet Union and Western countries in the Cold War. Through this blog we will explore all important parts of the Soviet blockade and American airlift history.
Overview
After the Berlin Blockade started when Soviet forces stopped all transportation links to West Berlin which remained under United States, British, and French control. Through the blockade the Soviet Union wanted Western occupiers to surrender their control in Germany and re-unify the nation.
Causes
The Soviet Union chose to block Berlin because it intensified rivalry with nations in the West. The US, Britain, and France ran West Germany following World War II but the Soviet Union gained control of East Germany during this division. As these groups grew apart they developed more powerful disagreements about their leaders’ influence.
The Blockade
On June 24 1948 Soviet forces started a complete stop of transportation and goods to West Berlin. The Soviet Union fully blocked all transportation of necessary items including fuel and basic foods. West Berlin needed to become unlivable for Western powers to leave by Soviet design. West Berliners faced extreme difficulties when the Soviet Union placed their area under siege.
The Airlift
After the Soviet Union imposed its blockade the United States arranged an airlift operation with its allies. The operation gave air transport to West Berlin after Soviet officials set up a blockade to cut off ground routes. Flight missions from all participating nations totalling 275,000 transport runs delivered 2.3 million tons of goods that included food supplies, fuel, and medical products during the operation period.
Significance
Through the Berlin Airlift Western nation partners showed united resolve in their action. Through the air delivery system the United States proved its determination to fight back against Soviet invasion while offering essential resources to West Berliners. During the Cold War the Western powers showed their dedication to defend their purposes by helping their partners through the Berlin Airlift.
End of the Blockade
Due to the airlift’s ongoing operations and international pressure the Soviet Union stopped their blockade on May 12 1949. Western allies reached their goal against the Soviet Union’s attempts to take over West Berlin.
Legacy
The Berlin Blockade and Airlift produced permanent results. The new country arrangements created East Germany and West Germany following the Soviet blockade. The showdown between US and Soviet countries made the Cold War between them even worse.
Conclusion
In 1948 the Berlin Blockade and Airlift created major changes for the Cold War movement. The Soviet blockade of West Berlin failed to drive out Western forces because the US and British responded through an airlift of supplies. Through the airlift program the United States proved its resistance to Soviet forces and gained ground in their battle against the USSR. This historic moment continues to affect how the world looks after World War II.